goodbye cruel world?

After a lot of thought - and I mean a lot, I have decided to give up the blogging thing. My posts are boring and uninteresting anyways. So if anyone still reads this, thanks for tuning in for so long. I'll try to keep checking out your blogs when time permits...

Until our paths cross again, keeping on running. I know I plan to.

a run of bad luck

As luck would have it, I’ve come down with something. It started Sunday, and manifested in into me losing my voice by the evening. I missed my run on Monday, then ran Tuesday only to miss my runs on Wednesday and today. I stopped at the Minute Clinic last night and it a viral thing, so no medicine. I actually feel fine except for my throat, which feels raw, and the constant draining down the back of my throat (yuck). I probably would have run anyway, but I didn’t sleep well and was too tired to wake up in time to run. Hopefully, I’ll be okay by the weekend because this sucks…

 

funny girl

After a busy morning on Saturday, we ended  up heading back to the park for some more fun on the slides in the late afternoon. It was actually another beautiful evening – surprisingly since it was overcast and raining intermittently throughout the day. I can’t think of any sound sweeter than hearing Lilli’s giggles as she heads down the slide, sometimes head first.

 

Yesterday, on the way home from a birthday party we happen to be listening to a Bob Marley CD and “Buffalo Soldier” came on, towards the end of the song where he sings “Woy yoy yoy yoy, yoy yoy-yoy yoy…” Lilli picks right up and is singing along… such a funny girl.

 

training: week 4 complete

A bit of a rough week for running, but got in all but one run this week...

Monday's 3.5 mile run was not too bad, felt pretty good actually. Even my 35 minute tempo run on Wednesday ended up being a good run.

Thursday came and I was too tired to get out of bed and run, so took the day off, but after dinner on Thursday we headed to the state park to play. It was such a beautiful evening. Lilli played on all the slides - she's found them to be a blast. Her favorite one is the biggest one there that is built into the side of a hill. She giggled all the way down. She looked like a little luge athlete from the olympics - so cute.

Yesterday was just 3 miles. It was a very slow run for me - close to a 10:00/mile pace and it felt awful. My right shin was tightening up, my gait felt all off, just not a good run, but I finished it, stretched and was fine.

Today's run was a 7 miler. Started out a 7am and ran the regular route through Fort Ben. Can't say I felt great on the run, not so much due to any pain, but because I was so congested. I haven't figured out if it is allergies or sinuses, but it is not fun. It took the entire hour of running to clear it all out... yuck.

After the run, I came home and got cleaned up to head over to Lawrence Safety Day. It was right down the road from home and we had taken our nephews a few years back and they enjoyed it, so we took Lilli for the first time. She loved seeing all the fire trucks and police motorcycles and she went crazy when the black hawk helicopter landed - she was so amazed by it (as was I). It hovered above the trees and then came in for a landing - just amazing the amount of wind it pushed down.

Next week is another bump up in the schedule. Stayed tuned for updates...

oh so tired...

I got home a little early yesterday from being on a job site all day, so I was able to finish priming the toy chest and even got a first coat of accent paint on the drawers and lid. I did notice some remedial patching and sanding that needs to be done, but nothing too labor intensive, just delays starting the final coat of paint. It felt great to get another step ahead on that project.

This morning, I was supposed to do a 35 minute tempo run, but due to lack of sleep last night (a certain someone got up crying at 1:30 am and didn't go back to sleep until 4:30 - poor little tired girl) I did not run this morning and I don't think I'll even try this evening. I guess I'll get to it tomorrow morning...

A friend of mine just got back into the office today. He just turned 40 on Saturday. To celebrate he ran the Pikes Peak Ascent. I am quite envious and it sounded like it was an amazing time. Even though I still have a few year yet, I looked into when my 40th birthday fell to see if there is a race that I might participate in to celebrate. Unfortunately it falls on a Monday, so I could either run the Sunday or Saturday before as my "last hurrah" before turning 40, or figure something else out. I'll be on the lookout for races and seeing what I can find. Until then, I am enjoying my 30's while I can.

I may have to grow old, but I don't have to grow up...

training: week 3 complete

It was a good week for training, even though the humidity is high. It was a slight step back week with only a 5k race scheduled for the long run, but the mid week runs kept me honest. This week the daily maintenance runs increased slightly to 3.5 miles from 3. Tuesday had me back at 400m repeats. Luckily, I fared a little better this time and kept my pace a little more even and started out at a more appropriate pace.

I opted out of doing a 5k race, instead hitting the trails for a more strenuous workout. Ended up slightly over 4 miles at an easy pace. Hills felt good surprisingly.

On a personal note, I actually made some progress this weekend on a project that I've put off for quite some time. We have a linen chest that we got with the armoire I finished last summer and it's been sitting in my garage all this time. The plan was to strip it of the layers of paint and refinish it for a toy chest for Lilli. We've been doing okay without it up to this point, but Lilli's toys are getting bigger as she does. So much of her little toys she played with as a baby are now boxed up, she's moved onto Tinker Toys and dollies. So over a few weekends this summer I've slowly gotten all the paint stripped off the chest. Yesterday I completed the stripping and sanded it and put a primer coat on the main chest. Still need to prime the top and the drawers, but if time allows, I might finish it up before she heads out to college...

600+ miles in one day

Yesterday I found myself behind the wheel for 11 hours driving up to Michigan. The original plan was to drive up for a construction meeting (about 3 hours one way), but I had to go from there, halfway across the state to Lansing to drop off drawings for review(an additional 2.5 hours), then drive back.

Needless to say my legs needed some stretching. This mornings run helped a lot too, but I could tell they were just a bit tired.

training: week 2 complete

A decent week overall. Got in 3 days during the week (missed one day). Not great runs, but got through them. Today's 6 miler wasn't bad, but I felt tired before it even started. On top of that I ran with no breakfast.

More building of mileage next week and capping it with a 7 miler.

back on tempo

After a little bit better night's sleep (and a little inspiration from reading some of the new Runner's World that came in the mail) I was anxious to get out for a run. To make it more interesting, there was fog everywhere. I always liked running in fog, it's so eerie - reminds me of some Stephen King novel...

Anyway, head out for a tempo run this morning to pick up where I left off. The last time I ran a tempo run was around the same time I ran my last 400m repeat, so it's all new to me. Fortunately, it was only a 30 minute tempo run, so it wasn't going to be painful. I started out easy then peaked around 7:45 - 8:00/mile pace. Felt pretty good actually.

Tomorrow, another 3 miles - nothing fancy.

off tempo

For the past two nights, I have not slept well. This morning I could not wake up, so did not get out for my tempo run. I can't even use the weather as an excuse (Though it had thundered, lightning and rained earlier this morning and is doing so currently - but it wasn't at the time I would normally run). So I either push it off to tomorrow, or try to get it in this evening. I leaning towards dealing with it another day... mood is not good, but for reasons other than non-running. I won't get into it (not that anyone reads this blog anyway), but suffice to say it's nothing I should be aggravated about, but I can't seem to help it.

fun with recycling

Yesterday was so beautiful out and it was impossible to stay indoors, so Lillian and I decided to play outside. The swing has become a little passe, so we got creative and dug out a box from the recycling pile and created a little playhouse. I think the look on her face says it all... we had a lot of fun. We even added color using some of her sidewalk chalk. She's quite the interior decorator!

This morning's run went well. Looking forward to my tempo run tomorrow...

training: week 1 complete

The first week actually went okay. I made my planned runs and topped out at 14.5 miles for the week. Today's 5 miler felt easy - especially compared to my last two weekend runs where I felt awful.

Tomorrow I rest and then begin my next week of training, more mid-week 3 milers (one a tempo run) and then a 6 miler for the long run.

it is done

I am now officially signed up. Now it's time to train...

3 in a row

I have a streak started - three days in a row with running. Now all I need to do is sign up for the race, it seems to be motivating me to get out and run.

This morning's run was not pretty. My legs were tired and oddly enough, both my ankles felt tight, but I managed another 3 miles. I'll take tomorrow off I think and then run 5 on Saturday. Doesn't seem like much, but based on my previous last two "long" runs, 5 will be just fine.

a day behind schedule already

Since I determined that I will run a half in October and pulled together a schedule at the last possible minute, I realized that I was already a day behind. So today I ran my 5 x 400's...

Oh, crap! It has been way too long since I have run intervals and in true Dave form - I ran them way too fast. My first few were in the range of 6:30 pace and my last one I crashed and burned and didn't run all 400 meters... needless to say, they were meant to be at 5k pace, and I guess I need to determine my 5k pace first. Oops.

Tomorrow is an "easy" 3 miles (relatively anyway).

procrastination is a great motivator

"Great Price! Early registration runs until August 1, 2009, offering the Full Marathon for $50 and the Half Marathon for $40. "

So with time running out and needing motivation here's my plan - coincidentally just in time to begin this week!

why am i so soft in the middle...

and the rest of my life so hard?

Running is NOT going well. In fact, it's barely going, so the reason for such a long hiatus from blogging. Here's a brief recap:

• Took off last week for "stay-cation" and worked on installing new floors in living/dining and kitchen. Needless to say, my knees were sore from the work. The week leading up to the stay-cation had me so busy at work that I could just find no time to get out, so it was 12 days with no running.
• Finally on Saturday I got out and headed to the trails. I got in about 5.5 miles and I was drained. My legs were just depleted - nothing left - and this was just 5.5 miles!
• So I intended to get out on Monday morning - didn't happen.
• I hoped to get out Tuesday - didn't happen. Though I did go out for a short bike ride with Lilli.
• I even thought maybe this morning - nope.

So I've realized if I am at all serious about doing a half in October, I need to buckle down and hit the pavement. Crap! I've got to get my $hit together! I sure wish I was motivated now...

consistently inconsistent

Another week down and not much running. This after a 25 mile week... In all fairness it was a busy July 4th weekend.

The week started out okay - a couple of runs Tuesday and Wednesday, but Thursday I just couldn't wake up and ten it was down to my parents after work. Friday morning I started re-roofing my dad's tool shed and it ended up taking all day. Saturday we woke up, decided since we were close to go ahead and peruse the outlet mall. Found a few good deals, but nothing great.

We made it back home early afternoon, feeling exhausted. We all took a 2+ hour nap and felt somewhat better. Around 9:30 we headed out to watch the fireworks. It was still raining, but it was light. The fireworks were great. Lilli loved them. They kept going off over 30 minutes. Liili was fading fast (and so were we) so we left. This morning I had every intention of getting out for a run, but lacked any motivation to get out the door. It was still overcast and gloomy looking - not enticing for a run at all - or my mood. So no running today either.

I hope to start fresh agin tomorrow. We'll see how I feel in the morning. Another short week this week - taking Friday off to work on projects at home...

communing with nature

After a long hiatus from the trails, I was able to get out on them today for about a 7 mile run. I chose the one trail at the park that I normally avoid (probably because of the stairs) and ran it. I forgot how much I liked this trail. It winds along the banks of Fall Creek and is mainly flat until it reaches a series of stairs. I took them with ease and climbed up, up, up and then circled back down the other side of the trail only to do another lap. Second time was just as nice, stairs not a problem. My GPS couldn't synch so I never knew my distance for sure, but I went by time. I am not 100% sure of my pace either, but I at least ran a 10:00/mile pace. I finished and felt great - not worn out like I have been on previous runs.

Yesterday I took the time to clear some limbs from our weeping willow and got a swing hung up for Lilli. She got up from her nap and tried it out right away. Over a half hour later she was still in there swinging away, until it was snack time. It was still tough to get her out of the swing -- she loves the outdoors as much as I do, but we got her out. Hopefully we can go out for a bike ride today or just do some more swinging - anything to be outside...

renewal

Perhaps my last entry was too negative. After all, running tends to have it's rough patches. This morning reminded me my running can be reaffirming. I started out at 5am, in the dark, heat and humidity. I didn't run at all this weekend, so I planned for a 7 mile run this morning (I know that's not really much of a long run to some), so I headed out at a comfortable pace. I felt pretty good actually, not tired or run down. I get 3 miles into my run and I see some lighting, hear some thunder, then it began a soft rain. It felt great, but seeing some more lightning kept me focused. I decided to head back home and see if it would pass. The rain kept me cool and just felt so good. I love the smell of a summer rain - it is so fresh. As I rounded the corner into my neighborhood, I could see the sun coming up behind all the clouds - a new day beginning... Just me and my thoughts... pretty cool. As I approached home, the thunder and lighting as well as the rain had passed, but I chose to end the run at 5 miles. I felt good, still could have gone a few more miles easily, but want to focus on running more consistently throughout the week.

ho hum

This blog is supposed to be about me and my running. I do not have much to tell unfortunately. I did run on Monday morning - a relatively fast 5k in the neighborhood and also this morning - normal 5 mile route and pace... a bit boring. Very uninspiring.

Some weekends I struggle to get a run in and there have been a few recently where I didn't run at all - I just didn't care.

What is going on? I wish I had an answer.

Time seems to be a commodity that I have little of these days. I try to get stuff done and still don't have time. I actually played hooky from work on Monday to mow the lawn, do some laundry and shampoo the carpets - I really know how to have fun on my day off! But this didn't get done on the weekend, and needed to be done.

So, feeling somewhat caught up, I can relax just a bit. But there is a huge list of things to do and it looks like we'll be taking a stay-cation this year and working around the house... oh the times they are a-changing...

realizing some savings

It's an odd title perhaps, but that sums up what the last couple of days has been about... First, let's rewind to the beginning of the week though to recap some actual running.

I was able to get out for a very brief 2 mile run on Monday after work. It was spur of the moment, but I left a little early, picked up Lilli from school and asked her if she wanted to go for a run. She replied "Yep!" So I got the jog stroller out we went. She l-o-v-e-s her jog stroller (or at least going fast). The run got shortened a bit because of dark clouds moving in fast, but any run is always a good run.

Tuesday I couldn't get out of bed to go for a run in time, so it had to wait until Wednesday. Got started a little late, but wanted 5 miles so had to make it quick. Long story short, natured called half way into my run and I was thankful I wasn't doing and out and back - only a mile away from home. whew!

Thursday was another "Lilli Day", so tried again for at least 3 miles. This time had to cut it short because someone was fussy... so we settled on 2.5 miles. I think she was hungry, at least when we got home she ate pretty well. So not an awful week of running, but I was hoping for a little better mid-week runs. I really need to get a training plan together soon!

Now, back to the last couple of days: Steph and I took Friday off because she had an endoscopy scheduled for the morning and she was sedated for the procedure and couldn't drive all day, sign important papers (these are the words on the form) or anything like that. So it seemed like a good time to take off and maybe relax a little. On the way back, we were driving in the neighborhood and notice a few garage sales, so we stopped on a whim. The first one had a "double wide" jog stroller, so clothes, toys and books. We looked at the job stroller a little while and weren't sure about it. It would be handy in the future if we have another kid, but it wasn't totally necessary to get. It was $20 and looked brand new. I offered $15 and she accepted. Score! Filled the tires up with air and took it for a stroller around the block later that evening. I think Lilli likes it more than her single-seater... it rides like a Cadillac.

Today was our neighborhood sale (which was why there were a few early ones). We looked around, found a couple of items, but nothing we were necessarily looking for. The one thing we wanted was a bike trailer for Lilli so we could all go out for a ride. The ones we had looked at at the stores were $100 - $120, so it wasn't going to happen any time soon unless we could find a used one. We decided to try another neighborhood that was also having a sale. The first place we drove past had one sitting in the driveway. I almost jumped out of the car to check it out. It looked practically new, had everything with it. I of course counter-offered, but they stuck with their price of $40 (still a great deal), so I said I'd take it.

This evening, the three of us took it out for a spin in the neighborhood and had a great time. I am not sure if Lilli liked it more than the jog stroller or not, but I think it's a winner. I think I could even enjoy bike riding again...

the calm after the storm

After a wild Saturday night of thunder, lightning and plenty of hail, Sunday was a calm, beautiful day without a cloud in the sky. It started off a little slow, but I made it out to the park for some trail running, which I was sure would be plenty muddy.

I wasn’t disappointed. I couldn’t even get to the main trail without going through standing water and mud, so it set the tone for the run. I decided to keep it somewhat easy and enjoy the surroundings. Much like my yard, there were plenty of downed leaves everywhere, but there were also more wash-outs than before, making for some treacherous running. I made my way up and around the trail loop, then dropped down, crossed the road and went up another hill to another trail. I got to the top and through the woods and began to circle around the mounds that were in the clearing. I decided to extend my run up here by running cross country style along the line of the woods where a path had been mowed. It proved to not be my best ideas – I managed to find a hidden hole and wrenched my right ankle a bit. I kept running and assessed my ankle and it seemed okay. I made it to the road (level ground) and ran a little while on it to see how my ankle was feeling. The initial pain subsided and disappeared, so I jumped back onto the trail and back down the trail. I finished my loop and then kept going along the banks of Fall Creek, then up the sledding hill and back down. I headed back to my car and then stretched and cleaned up.

 

It was a short run (5 miles) but I packed a lot of terrain in and got quite a workout. I finished feeling worn out – but in a good way. Like I finally accomplished something good. It wasn’t until later in the day that my ankle started throbbing… not terribly painful, but sore. This morning it seems better, slightly sore, but nothing to worry about.

 

I’ll try for a few easier road runs this week – hopefully after work today – and see how it goes. I am also going to try to put together a training schedule for the fall and it may be a full marathon training plan (even if I only run the half). Stay tuned for more on this…

 

Until then, happy running…

 

where do we go from here?

So my running is not where I'd like it. I don't hate it, but I am uninspired. I'd like to run more races - give me a goal or at least some motivation. Money is a bit tight these days and it doesn't look like ti will be getting any better any time soon. I am glad I still have a job, but it is getting tougher to make ends meet and certainly less money for things like races. I would like to run at least the half marathon in October (though I'd really like to run the full), but I haven't decided if I will or not. I think I need to in order to keep me going, but it's hard to justify right now. So not sure where to go from here... need time to figure it all out.

race report: dances with dirt

Okay, I know its been way too long since my last post - especially since I promised to do a race report. Much to my surprise someone is actually reading this blog and is asking for a recap of dances with dirt, so this one's for you Barb... The morning started out early. I was up by 4:30 am to get ready, grab some breakfast and meet Jason and Mark at 6am. I arrive about 5 minutes early and no one was there. Jason arrives about 10 minutes after and Mark 5 minutes that. We throw everything into my car and I thought we were ready, but nature calls for Mark, so we wait. Finally get on the road and I am thinking that it will be close. We will probably arrive just as the relay gets started, which is fine since Jason runs the 2nd leg and Mark runs the 3rd. I have the feeling of impending doom in the pit of my stomach about the race - could be the fact that I do not feel well trained, but am taking some comfort in the fact that I am running the same legs as last year. At about 1/2 hour away, nature called for Jason, so we hit a rest stop and then continued on. The last 20 minutes is on winding two lane road that is next to impossible to pass anyone on and as luck would have it, we were behind a slow driver. Somehow, we managed to pull in right as the relay started, remarkably we grab an awesome parking spot, then transfer gear to the team vehicle. It was a cool, crisp morning, with a slight hint of humidity in the air, but it felt good. with me being fourth in line to run, I had plenty of time to "relax", but I kept getting more and more nervous. I usually do at races anyway. Between the 3rd and 4th legs we had to drive to the exchange point inside the state park. It was here that I would start me leg of the race. I had to wait on Mark to arrive though and this was his first time running this race. We weren't sure how he'd run on this, since it is quite different than most terrain anyone runs on, but he managed a decent time and then it was my turn to head out. I remembered this leg being straight down for the first 1/4 mile then around a lake and then up and down hills to the end - a short 5k leg. What I forgot was, there were stairs half way down the trail and like and idiot I tried to go down them (when what I should have done is run along side them). The steps were to small for my big feet and very wet and slippery from the early morning dew. I ended up walking down (like most people were doing). I caught up to a couple of people at the bottom and followed for awhile. Once we got around the lake, it was up a hill, across a road and down a hill. So far, not too bad. It seemed better than last year, but then it seemed it was all up hill from there... the hills were kick my ass, but I pushed on and then had to take a walk break up one of them, then another walk break on another, then finally it "flatten out"to were it went across a series of hills, which was becoming painful for my ankles to run at an angle like that. Just when I thought I couldn't take anymore, the "trail" pops out of the woods and then along a road to the next exchange point. I was a little sore and glad my first leg was over. My second leg ended up not being the same one I had run last year. I was somewhat disappointed because that leg had me finishing up by jumping in a drainage ditch that is filled up to about waist height with water. Instead Mark ran that leg and I ran the one that followed - which had me jumping in the ditch first then running straight up a hill (for what seemed like forever) and then through the woods, up and down, through briars - all that fun stuff. The nickname for this leg was "Stupid" and I understand why. With the obvious jump into the drainage ditch and crossing a creek and the up hill running, some through briars (my legs were a little bloody by the end) it at one point had us running in the middle of stream - flags tied to branches overhead. I think we ran about a 1/4 mile in the stream then back into the woods and briars to an almost vertical hill. No. Seriously. It was one step up, slide two steps back. It was a nice layer of slippery mud under all the fallen leaves. I finally made it up the hill, and then ran some more hills. I could finally hear the traffic from the road ahead an knew I was getting close. Then it was downhill to the road (hard to slow down as I kept picking up speed) and then the final 1/4 mile was along side the road. I thought I could pick up the pace then, but my legs started to tighten up with each stride. I hobbled in, glad that "stupid" leg was over with - and it was only 3 miles! My final leg was a 5.8 mile leg that I was hoping to redeem myself on. Last year it was so muddy that it zapped a lot of energy out of me and I did a lot of walking. This year I vowed to run as much as possible, but I was feeling exhausted... uninspired even. I waited and waited for Mark, but it was way passed the time it should have taken him to run the leg. We weren't sure if he was lost or injured, but I headed out so we could make sure we finished in the daylight. I felt slow and was sure my pace was somewhere between a slow jog and a fast walk. The first mile was on paved surface and then it heads into the woods, then onto some horse trails. The horse trail were the muddy part last year and surprisingly with all the rain we got the week leading up tot he race they seemed okay. They were okay until I rounded a corner and it was what I had imagined it to be., but I plowed through it and kept going. I got passed by one guy not too long after that and I couldn't keep up, but I kept up my slow run as best I could. I came across him not too long after that - he lost his shoe in some deep mud. I passed him by and kept trying to pick the best spot in the trial for footing. I came up to a hill and had to walk it. It was a rather small hill, but I needed the break. I had forgotten to set the timer on my watch to keep track of time and I had only a slight idea of what time it was when I started. I estimated I was a little over half way done. This leg was changed slightly from last year and had me going up to the top of a ridge and then straight down a double black diamond ski slope... it was full of ruts and wash-outs - lots of fun to run down after your legs are trashed! There was a small gathering of people at the exchange point, so I had to make sure I didn't fall and roll down the hill. Luckily I made it, legs feeling tight and heavy. I was happy to be done and more happy to have survived. We stuck around for the BBQ, drank some beer and shared our stories of our runs. Then we all decided to do it again next year... yep we're crazy...

i survived, again

I survived Dances With Dirt. It was more fun this year, but more painful than last year. More to follow, but for now I am resting and mending. Will definitely need to train better if I do this next year...

umm, hi, remember me?

I'm not even sure any missed me or even checked my blog, but I am still around.  All is well. Running was going well until this past week. I was up to an 11 mile run two weekends ago. It was a long lonely run, but I made it. Amazing how an 11 mile run feels long now... 

It was supposed to be a slow week for me at work, so I had hoped for a good week of running - rain or not, I was going to run, but haven't run since my 6 mile run on Sunday. The last two previous weeks work hours had me a bit worn out, so it was time to catch up on sleep.

Next weekend is the Dances With Dirt race - looking forward to it and dreading it all at once. Should be okay though - not concerned of mileage. I think I'll be running a total of 12.9 miles.

I went into my favorite running store to get new shoes - both trail and road. They had my normal road shoes, but nothing in trail shoes. They wanted to charge me for shipping and an additional $5 to order shoes they didn't carry, so I declined and came home and ordered them and got free shipping. I just hope they arrive before the race...

That's all for now. I've got a busy day tomorrow with lawns to mow and some more yard work that I didn't get a chance to do today... glad it ended up nice outside today.

arizona pix

Just a few photos from Arizona...

Here are the Granite Dells (or part of them at least). I was fortunate enough to be able to run through these.

Here I am hiking up towards Thumb Butte.

Here is a view from Sedona. The rocks and ground are very red here. Views are quite spectacular.

Here is a view from Jerome, AZ. It was an old copper mining town built on the side of a mountain. Pretty much abandoned. Now it is home to some wonderful art galleries, shops and restaurants.

Another view on the way to Sedona while driving through the mountains.

back home again in indiana

We just got back yesterday afternoon from a week's vacation in Arizona where we had a wonderful time.

The weather was perfect. The views were stunning. The running was phenomenal...

We were in Prescott, AZ (where Steph's parents moved to last summer). I did a little searching and the City of Prescott has an incredible trail system - something I have never seen before. Because Prescott (pronounced "pres-kit") is at 6000 feet above sea level, it was a little more challenging to run at first (not to mention all the hills).

We arrived on Saturday and the 3 hour time difference didn't seem to be a huge factor initially, but I chose not to get out for a run that day - just kind of relax. After all, it was a 4 hour plane ride that left at 6am Indy time, so we were up EARLY to get to the airport. And, by the way, the new airport is amazing - truly something to be proud of. Lilli was great on the plane - no crying, just kept herself busy with coloring and waving to other passengers. She slept during take off and landing, but was up during most of the flight.

Steph's parents picked us up at the airport in Phoenix and then we drove back to Prescott - about 2 hours North of Phoenix. We drove through town on the way to their house - a quaint small town - you could really tell it had a history and sensed the "old west" in the original storefronts of the buildings. We took naps after lunch and then ventured out that evening to check out the town.

During the day when the sun is out it was very comfortable, but once the sun goes down - it gets cold fast. At night the temps dipped into the 30's, but during the day it was in the 70's - perfect weather. It was also very dry there - humidity levels were around 40%, which is well below normal/average humidity.

The Second day I decided to just run in the neighborhood - still getting acclimated to the thinner air. Of course the neighborhood is built on the side of a hill, so there was nothing but hills to run on, if I ran up, I had to run down and if I ran down, surely had to run back up at some point. So an easy 5 mile run turned into an extreme hill workout. I had never had my lungs burn so badly in my life. I had to stop every 1-1/2 miles walk, and took water about every 1/2 mile because it was so dry. The cool thing was, my sweat actually evaporated instead of just clinging to me like it does here in Indy. The bad thing was, it was easy to get dehydrated, so I was drinking a lot of water out there.

The next day we headed out early to Sedona, so no running, but I did run Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Tuesday I got to a couple of trails that went around Willow Lake. They were nicely groomed dirt trails that were mainly in open fields. While it was nice scenery (and really, there was no bad scenery to speak of), the trail lacked what I had hoped to be running. Wednesday had me running in the neighborhood again - I didn't have a car to get to a different trail, so I chose a different path and made it a shorter run. It was meant to give my legs a bit of rest as they were still a little sore from the hills on the first day, but there were still some inclines to run. My final day out there, I chose a new trail. This time I was not disappointed. It was what I had imagined the trails out there to be. I wish my run hadn't ended. I started at a park that had a trail that went around Watson Lake. It took me up a ridge to a spectacular view, then down the other side along the shore, through a grove of trees and then it connected to the Peavine Trail. The Peavine is a rails to trails path, but it isn't paved, just dirt and crushed stone. It picks up where the first trail left off by going around the other side of Watson Lake through the Granite Dells (which are huge granite outcroppings). The views just got better. I was in pure trail running heaven! It got even better when I found a spur that took me right along the shore and up and down and through huge granite outcroppings. This was the type of trail I had only dreamt of. I was hoping left to right to avoid the rocks and cacti, I was weaving up and over the rocks. There were times the dirt trail just seemed to stop at an outcropping only to be picked up again of the other side. The trail seemed to be constantly changing, so I had to pay a lot of attention to my footing, so I took it slower than usual. Plus, I wanted to be sure to take in the views. I followed this lake shore spur all the way to a cove, then scaled up a bank and back onto the Peavine Trail. I took it further North for another mile then had to turn around to get back. I had already lost track of time. I only totaled 6.5 miles for that run, but it was the most incredible trail run I have EVER experienced! If only I had picked that trail first... well, maybe next time.

The overall trip was great. I was able to get away from work (for the most part) and enjoy our free time. Lilli loved it out there, but she's an outdoor girl and was happy to be able to be outside. The time difference messed with both Lilli and I. I was getting up at 2 am every morning (5 am in Indy) because my internal clock was used to that. Lilli also got up at her usual Indy time. Stpeh was lucky to be able to adjust to the time, though I think I woke her up a couple fo times.

We really enjoyed our time out there, and would I love to go back if only to run more trails and hike more too, but I don't think it is a place we could live - at least not at this point in our life. I'll keep it open for the future, but for now we're glad to be back home again.

P.S. I'll post some photos soon...

inconsistency

"It's only Wednesday he thought", as he drove back from Michigan. "Besides, with daylight savings time I can get out before dinner for a run and it will still be light out".

It never happened. 

A small emergency came up and before I knew it, it was 9pm. 

So three days in a  row I have missed a run. So much for consistency. In all honesty, Monday was a scheduled day off since I ran 4 days in a row and Tuesday I was still feeling the effects of losing an hour and I overslept, and well, it happened this morning too... crap.

But TOMORROW I will run, er, I hope to run.

On another note, I got my Runner's World yesterday and started thumbing through it. I came across the trail shoe reviews and I jumped all over it. In there were my next pair of trail shoes... The New Balance 875's... oh I can't wait until April 1st when they go on sale! I guess I'll put off getting any until then.

consistency

The total for my weekly mileage is 25.

That is 25 miles for the week.

2 - 5.

Part of that came because I was so much more consistent in my running (it also didn't hurt that the weather was at an all time awesomeness since about Wednesday. I ran every day since Thursday and it was shear bliss (well, almost. My run on Friday was a rough 3 mile slog that couldn't end soon enough). Friday afternoon had me e-mailing and calling to check on everyone's availability. It was time to gather some people up for a run. Winter is always tough to get people out, but with mid-60's and partly sunny weather for Saturday, there was no problem. Jason, John, Mark and myself decided to run on the Monon trail (along with a huge group of people who had probably hibernated for the winter). It wasn't packed to the point that running was tough or we had to dodge bikers or walkers, but you could tell people were out to enjoy the day. On the schedule was 7 miles (probably far behind where I would normally be in any type of training, but it was what it was). All of us were at different levels in base mileage but we came together for the common goal of getting out for a fun run. The pace probably started out a little fast - about 8:45/mile, but it felt good. On the way back, we slowed down a bit - mainly due to the wind, but also because of the initial pace. John and I picked the pace back up and left Mark and Jason to follow. I was feeling pretty good. Our pace picked back up and kept increasing as we got closer to the end. I think we clocked in 7:00/mile pace in the last 1/4 mile... the weather really has a way of '"enhancing" your run...

Then today I got out for another run, this time with Brooke. We didn't have a specific distance we were going to go, but threw out 3 to 4 miles as a start. It still felt so great out even though it was overcast and a little humid. We ended up doing 7 miles. I feel great for getting out both days and getting in some good quality runs, not to mention getting my total weekly miles back where I want them.

A very busy week at work this week, so hopefully and can keep my running going. More to post a little later...

a streak of sorts

I had a nice run on Sunday with Brooke and John. 5 miles on the trail, with an easy recovery walk at the end. The weather was a little cool, but not bad in the woods.

Since Sunday I have run three days in a row. The streak was broken this morning, but I decided it best not to push it for a couple of reasons: I was feeling a little tired and I didn't want to increase my mileage too quickly since I have been so inconsistent. Ironically, it was actually above freezing this morning, so my run would have been kind of nice. Well, there's always tomorrow (plus I am taking a vacation day so I might try to run during the daylight... *insert big smile here*). I am hoping to get my mileage up around 20 - 25 miles / week by mid-March as I stretch my long runs a little further. Currently, the only race I am training for is Dances with Dirt, so there is some time yet, but I'd like to get to at least a 10 mile trail run before then.

Not much else to report - shoes are feeling good. A nice, comfortable ride. I have a mid-test feedback report to complete around March 11th so I'll have a few more miles on them by then.

a better weekend

My week was rough, but got in a couple of mid-week runs. None of them were stellar, but the fact that I got out was impressive.

By Friday, I was looking forward to my 5k race on Saturday. When I arrived home (slightly later than I had hoped) a package was sitting at the front door. It was these:

I have mentioned in the past that I have done weartesting for New Balance - and here were a brand new pair for me to try out. I was so "geeked" about these that I tried them on right away. They felt great and wore them for my 5k race on Saturday.

The 5k race was called Cupid's Fling. I was half hoping to PR in this race, but knew it would be tough since I really hadn't trained specifically for it. When the race started it was cold, damp and windy. I thought I started out at an easy pace and wasn't planning on pushing the pace any. I wasn't familiar with the course so just took my time and picked off people one by one. I was doing really well until the last 1/4 mile, when the course headed up hill to the finish. I didn't have enough kick left to pick the pace up, but still finished in a decent time - 24:08 (though no PR still).

Later Saturday, we went to my parents house for dinner and stayed the night. We went out for brunch this morning and then Steph and I left for home leaving Lilli at my parents. At home we went crazy and we cleaned and straightened up the house. It still amazes us how a little girl can create such a big mess! Later this evening we headed out for a belated Valentine Dinner. We ate, talked and just enjoyed each other's company. We enjoy having Lilli around all the time, but forget how nice it is to be just by ourselves. We really needed it.

The coming week looks to be busy, but I think I'll be able to get in a few more runs mid-week. Until then, happy running...

mediocre weekend

What should have been a great weekend ended up somewhat mediocre. I got out for a run on Saturday in the wonderful 50 degree weather. It was sunny when I started, but it became overcast and very windy a mile or two into the run. Ended up running through water, snow and ice - leaving my feet soaked. I wasn't really feeling it and decided 5 miles was good enough for this run. It was probably a good time for a step back week anyway. I planned to run today, but got busy with so many other things that needed to get done. I finished taxes, paid bills, and hauled off all the clutter that we took out of the house. Very exciting stuff... This week I hope to once again focus on running - especially with the break in the weather. No more excuses. On top of that there is a little 5K waiting for me on Saturday. More to follow...

frustration

Once again I am finding my mid-week runs to be almost non-existent! I did get out on Tuesday morning before it snowed, which was good - though it was only for 3 miles and it was friggin' cold. Wednesday was not a day for running because, well, I was tired and I used the snowy streets as an excuse. And Thursday? C'mon! It was -8 degrees when I woke up and I was not about to try to run (even though I have run in colder temperatures than that).

So I am in the endless cycle of frustration from not running and not wanting to run when I have the opportunity. Work has been a little less hectic, but it is another reason I haven't been consistent - too many things running through my head (all about work) that I feel guilty running when I should be at work trying to catch up on everything.

Today I came in early, after having an internal debate about going for a run this morning. Work won - but I lost. I got here early only to find the network was down. I lost over 4 hours... I managed to find some things to do that didn't require my computer thankfully, but what a waste... the only thing that could have made it worse was if there was no coffee... you wouldn't have wanted to see me then...

If all goes well, maybe I'll get out a little early and sneak in a run this evening... probably will run both days this weekend since the weather will be back to spring-like temps.

a couple more runs

This weekend I focused my attention to getting out for a run each day. The weather on Saturday was not optimal by any means, but I wanted, no - I needed to - get out for a good, long run. My plan was for 7 miles and I was going to stick to it no matter what. With all of the snow that was still lying around, I focused my attention to plowed, paved pavement. In order to not compete with cars on the much narrower streets that we are dealing with, I made my way to the park to run. Plus, the hills in the park were sure to add a level of difficulty that I haven't had in a long run.

Earlier in the morning it was a "balmy" 8 degrees. I think when I got out it was probably 10, but with a wind chill, more like 5... it was a bit cold. I dressed as best I could for the conditions and headed out. My hands were cold for the first 3 miles, then they were warm enough, but then my legs started to get cold after mile 4. I ended up running a 2.33 +/- mile loop and after the first 2 laps I was bored and was dreading the last lap. I hit the big hill on the route and it was all I could do to get to the top. I had to walk half way up... ouch! It'd been awhile since I needed to walk up any hill, but I was tired. I got to the top and picked it back up and finished out my run. I checked my time and saw I averaged an 8:47/mile pace... surprisingly not bad.

Sunday was a much, much nicer day. It was well above freezing - probably around 38 - 40 degrees with plenty of sunshine. It felt great. I hit the trails for a short 4 mile run. It turned out to be a good idea for a short run as the trails were tough - the snow was packed down, but because of the temperature it was getting soft and squishy in spots so it was quite a workout on the ankles. Made it out to a paved surface and opted to finish my run on this.

I am hoping to get back to more consistent runs during the week still, but not sure how I will manage it just yet. Two weeks until my 5k race - still time to get my speed up.

catching up

I made it out for a run yesterday and was joined by my friend Brooke. We hadn't run since... November's 15k Trail Run?! So we had some catching up to do. We didn't have a specific distance in mind, I think we were thinking at least 5 miles, so we set out on the trails that were frozen and slippery in some spots.

We talked on everything from the economy to what's been going on with each of our lives, which seemed closely tied to the economy... 2009 will be a tough year for all, but we'll make it through. And I think we both generally decided that whether we run any big races this year or not, we'll be training as if we will be running them - after all we still need a goal.

The run seemed to end quickly (though our speed over the slippery terrain was no land speed record). We reached 5 miles and felt pretty good. I'm sure we still have more we could talk about, but it will have to wait for another run :)

I'm planning on getting out for another run today - it's snowing out right now and it's always fun to run when it's snowing...

upcoming race

Steph's birthday was last Friday. For her birthday I took her to The Runner's Forum to get her new shoes. I found out that with a shoe purchase you get a free entry into Cupid's Fling 5k. So, I will at least be doing that race this year... all others are somewhat pending at this time. I think I may have to be a bit more selective on which runs I do.

a work in progress

I decided to change up my blog again this year and go back to my original title. I am also trying a slightly different look, but the upgraded blog template has limits and I've lost some of my "stuff". I'll figure it all out eventually.

2009 Races... hmm... I am going to say I plan to run all the DINO trail runs this year, but I am not sure that will happen. Already I am thinking of a spring half mary - I found one here locally at the end of March, so with my base miles, should be no problem to train (emphasis on should). In May I plan on running the Dances With Dirt trail run relay again as well as run the Geist Half. July I would like to run the 42k Relay I ran a couple of years ago - this time maybe with just one other person so we both end up running a half. Not much from that point on. I haven't decided on full or half for the fall yet - either way it will be the perennial favorite - the Indianapolis Full & Half in October. Then this year I'd like to run the half marathon that is run through downtown Indianapolis in November, finishing up with the season finale trail run at Fort Harrison.... unless I run the Tecumseh Trail Marathon in December...

I'll get my race calendar updated as soon as I can, but these are my thoughts. My running will need to get much more consistent - something I have not been in the last three weeks. I did get runs in both Saturday and Sunday though.

So that's it for now - everything is a work in progress. Until next time, Happy Running...

Coffee Snob

I am a coffee snob.

Okay. I've said it. I never really thought of myself as such, but it occurred to me yesterday when I ordered a coffee from Starbucks and thought it tasted awful. I've had coffee from there before, but in comparison to the coffee I have recently been drinking it sucks.

Back in 2005 Steph and I went to Key West. I'm a big Jimmy Buffett fan, so I was excited to go. I did a little research of things to do and found a coffee roaster down there, so made it a point to visit. I was not disappointed in the least. The coffee was exquisite. They roast in small batches and can control the roasting process much better than say a Starbucks that roasts mass quantities. The coffee is so smooth and wonderful I can't say enough about it. The name of the place is Baby's Coffee - "the southernmost coffee roaster in America"

Anyway, getting back to my point (I had a point?) - Since that trip, every Christmas I've gotten coffee from there as a present from Steph. Each year I get one more pound of coffee - to try to get me through the year (which it never does). I suppose I could order my own, but it wouldn't be as special, but then half the year I am stuck with some mediocre coffee that gets me through somehow.

So for now, I am enjoying every last drop of coffee. Sometimes its the little things that mean the most...